There are laws which allow us to use some drugs for illness only, with a prescription (script) from the doctor.

There are laws which say which drugs can be sold without a script.

There are laws about how old you have to be to buy some drugs.It is against the law for someone to sell you or give you alcohol or tobacco products unless you are 18 or older.

There are laws which make the buying, growing or using of some drugs illegal. This means that a person could be fined or go to jail for being involved with illegal drugs. These drugs are also called illicit drugs.

Some people don't care about the laws, they only care about making money. These people won't worry if young people take drugs that are addictive. (Addictive means that once you start you don't want to stop.)

Giving up addictive drugs is very hard. Have a look at our topic about addiction.

"There are hundreds of helpful drugs in the world today which have made people's lives longer and healthier.

Sometimes people use these helpful drugs too much or when they do not need to. Never take any one else's medication and never give any one else your medication, and never take anything if you don't know what it will do to your mind and body."

Some drugs are helpfulSome drugs are badSome make you betterWhile others send you mad.One thing is certainMake sure you're no fool.Only what the doctor ordersShould be your rule.

BH

We've provided this information to help you to understand important things about staying healthy and happy. However, if you feel sick or unhappy, it is important to tell your mum or dad, a teacher or another grown-up.